Released: 1999
‘How Do You Like Me Now?!’ by Toby Keith is a tale of a man who was overlooked in his youth, but who has now achieved success. The song is a blend of defiance, redemption, and a touch of sweet revenge.
The song starts with the protagonist reminiscing about his younger days. He was the ‘crazy one’, always trying to get the attention of the ‘perfect’ girl. He even wrote her number on the 50-yard line, a bold move that speaks volumes about his daring personality.
But she never noticed him. She was too busy with her many boyfriends, and he was just a loud guitar player. The repeated line ‘How do you like me now?’ is a challenge to her and all those who doubted him, now that he’s successful.
He moved to Tennessee, a hub for musicians, and despite being mocked, he made it big. Meanwhile, the girl he liked married into money but is unhappy. Her dreams were ‘torn apart’ by a neglectful husband.
Now, the protagonist is a successful musician, and his music is her ‘wake-up call’. It’s his way of saying he’s achieved his dream of ‘living in her radio’. The question ‘How do you like me now?’ is asked again, emphasizing his triumph.
The song concludes with the protagonist vowing to ‘preach on’, indicating he’s not done yet. He’ll continue to succeed and prove his doubters wrong. ‘How Do You Like Me Now?!’ is a testament to Toby Keith’s storytelling skills and a rallying cry for all the underdogs out there.
